Am taking an exciting adventure into exploring technologies that are flourishing in the western world specifically the U.S but don’t “work” in the most parts of Africa. Most technology is brewed in the west and directly applied in Africa. However, in this post, I will show you that copy and paste just won’t work. If you are a tech entrepreneur here or you’re new foreign tech investor in Uganda, this will help put things in perspective. So in no particular order, lets get started.
- iThings I am probably risking being shot by some apple fan boys who are happily using their iMacs, iPhones, iPads and other iThings and may even be reading this blog post using them. However, the fact is, very few Ugandans except executives and graphics, Ad and Media companies own or use apple products. Their prohibitive cost is rational reason for their unpopularity given Africa is a price-sensitive market. To put it in context, a 2.4 GHz quad 17″ MacBook Pro goes for $2,499.00 (~ Shs 6.5M) which is a 50 x100 ft plot of land with Jomayi property masters.
What works There’s a resounding presence of PC vendors like Dell, HP, Acer, Sony in computer stores around the country. You can get a PC equivalent of a Mac at half or less the price. Coupled with that, windows and some scanty bits of Linux are the most popular operating systems that most Ugandans use, let only aware of in the computer industry.
- Landlines Landlines are so strange that I personally had a hard time understanding some of the landline technology concepts back at Engineering school. Occasionally I by pass dangling or cut telephone wires along some roads and wonder whether there’s a functional landline telephone network in the country.
What works Mobile or cellular networks based on GSM standards is really what is more prevalent here. When the telecom sector was liberalized, Telecom companies like Celtel then – now Airtel and MTN saw rolling out cellular networks as the best alternative for Ugandans to communicate. Today a mobile phone is a house hold item even in rural Uganda.
What or what should work If there’s or was a Netflix equivalent of audio Media with content tailored for Ugandan audience like local music, then perhaps that would work. Audio streaming requires considerably less bandwidth like 64-128Kbs depending on quality and audio compression technologies which, I can say for sure is within the reach of some Ugandan internet users. YouTube much as is a video based service also works.
- NFC for mobile payments What exactly is NFC? It’s a short-range wireless communications technology. A standard that allows electronic devices to communicate with each other. For example, to make a cellular payment using a short- range radio frequency, an NFC reader can read data from a tag or another device placed very close to it. Now Analysts anticipate a booming market for NFC technology, predicting that the number of annual cellular electronic payments will increase five-fold by 2013, with mobile phone users spending more than $300 billion worldwide each year on digital goods (such as music, tickets and games) and physical goods (such as gifts and books). There are already players like Google through Google wallet that are promising seamless mobile payments. But there’s one problem; you need a cell phone equipped with an NFC chip. Those that ship with NFC chips are high end smart phones like Nexus S, Samsung galaxy SII which have not infiltrated the Ugandan market fully probably until 5 to 10 years from now.
What or what should work A solution that is not dependent on specific hardware components NFC chips both on existing mobile handsets and at points of sale would really work. For instance USSD platform which is currently enjoyed by Telecoms, is handset independent and works across any handset Chinese or rather fake phones inclusive. The only question is whether telecoms will allow local banks also to use such a platform.
- Online payments using credit cards First of all, I have a hard time writing about credit cards because I have never used them. Currently a few financial institutions offer credit cards like Crane bank which means very few Ugandans own them. What we have though are Visa enabled debit cards that work fine with ATMs and are accepted in a few selected retail stores, hotels, restaurants across the country but don’t work for making online transactions. At least my Stanbic bank Visa debit card doesn’t. Now, the absence of working online payment systems really is a bottle neck for an emerging E-commerce industry. For instance lets imagine a Ugandan online store that sales Ugandan digital items like local music to a Ugandan market. If i wished to buy the latest Isaiah Katumwa jazz album for which i would be happy to part with Shs 20,000, how would i be able to pay for that?
What or what should work Online transactions require an eco system of various parties which include banks, payment processing service providers or payment gateways and consumers/account holders. If our local banks work with payment gateway service providers with authorization of account holders, then I think a home baked credit card free solution that will enable me buy my jazz album from Isaiah is very much possible.
However, there are already noticeable online payment service providers like Yo Uganda that instead of banks are partnering with Telecoms to enable consumers and online retailers make electronic transactions using Mobile money with just a click of a button. Telecoms are step ahead of banks because they are releasing their mobile money APIs(Application Programming Interface ) to third party payment gateways like Yo Uganda and others coming, so that they can directly access and process online payments for Mobile money account holders. Of course no credit card and no visa required! That said, am waiting for any enterprising Ugandan to open up shop with Isaiah’s collection. By him incorporating Yo Uganda’s or any other payment service provider on his store, I’ll achieve my dream of acquiring Isaiah’s jazz piece from the comfort of my living room.
David Okwii is the Editor-in-Chief of Dignited.com and a seasoned tech enthusiast whose journey began in the early 2000s. He started blogging while at university, diving deep into mobile apps, smartphone reviews, and operating systems—from testing Linux distros to tweaking Windows machines. David also explores Chromebooks, experiments with Raspberry Pi projects, and brings hands-on curiosity to every review. With vast experience in Uganda’s tech ecosystem and deep knowledge of Africa’s startup landscape, he offers informed, grounded perspectives on consumer technology. When he’s not writing or tinkering, David enjoys connecting with nature and exploring the outdoors.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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How to Use GPT-4 Turbo for Free
Today,7th May 2013, marks the end of the preliminary entries for the $100,000 prize money for working on the “grand challenge” to find fresh condom concepts funded by the Gates foundation project.
In pursuit to make the world a better place, Microsoft founder, Bill Gates and wife Melinda Gates — under Gates Foundation — want to hear from material scientists, product designers, and sex experts interested in making prophylactics more “user-friendly.’’ According to STDAware.com , the major issue here is to curb the alarming rates of HIV spread and regulate population explosion through better and safer intercourse practices.In this way, some of the Millennium Development Goals will be achieved.
Today, there are about 750 million men worldwide consuming 15 billion condoms annually.However,the intended use for these condoms has not yielded encouraging positive results.On the other hand, there has not been much success in the adoption of the female condom.
When I crunched through the web for some amazing futuristic condoms or condom ideas;I landed on another ridiculous Apple patent,the iCondom — going for an outrageous $399 per pack — Apple claims to have spent 4 years creating the most perfect condoms on the Planet. The most perfect packing created by the best designers.
The special patented formula of latex which we use for creation of our condoms and the most advanced technical decisions have allowed to create to us a product which opens a new era in history of safe sex. – Apple.
However,this would be contrary to the whole campaign of creation of cheap condoms to be widely distributed especially in impoverished and resource deprived areas such as Africa and Asia. Also, researchers at the University of Washington are working on a very fine electrically spun fabric made of nanometer-sized polymer strands that dissolve to release sperm-blocking and anti-HIV drugs. And, Origami, a company in California, is developing a silicone injection-molded condom that it says is easier to put on, and more pleasurable to use. Well, the aforementioned may seem encouraging but in perspective, these are what I believe should be or should have been considered by any condom entry, research or subsequent concepts:
The Power of Influencers
Any day, anywhere in the world, the power of influencers comes in handy.An endorsement by an influencer for a condom product in tandem clear demonstration about proper usage and practices would be a game changer.The distribution channel used would also matter,since the campaign is geared at convincing as many young adults as possible, entertainment would be the ideal distribution channel.An example of the power of influencers is in the tweet below.
Michael Jordan needs to start making condoms. So these niggas will actually start wearing them… Advertisement - Continue reading below — Grandad Freeman (@GrandadJFreeman) May 5, 2013
The permanent condom
Many would literally sacrifice a lot to have this gem on.Unfortunately,in 2007, many men in Lesotho fell for this – they thought that circumcision (which has existed since medieval times) was the new permanent condom. Cutting the rate of HIV spread up to 60% seemed too good to be real until when a recent research showed that it actually cuts down by a paltry 1%.Much as the idea of a permanent condom is a mirage for now, this should act as an eye-opener to any condom innovator to simplify their product as much as possible.
Developed once, deployed world over
The outcry about differences in size of penises amongst different men in different continents leaves some rather frustrated about their intercourse experiences.It’s common to hear Africans complain how small male condoms are, yet Asians complain of how big they are.Whoever will fill this disparity, will get crowned a game changer.
Asia may need such a condom concept.
In hindsight,the desire for better sexual experiences wins.In creating condoms that spearhead this;STDs, unwanted pregnancies amongst other sexual related discrepancies will greatly be mitigated.
That is why Bill Gates centred his interest to the geeks as the main innovators,it is way beyond the techies,it’s all about the people and making the world a better place.
Editor’s note: The above post may contain inappropriate language.
Daniel Mwesigwa is a curious mind at the intersection of technology, media, and politics. Passionate about emerging trends and critical thinking, he’s known for cutting through noise—calling out conspiracy theories when they don’t hold up. When he’s not writing or analyzing the digital world, Daniel enjoys listening to music and playing soccer.
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